During physical examinations, it is common to find test results explicitly indicating abnormal liver function. However, most people remain unaware of the underlying causes of these abnormalities and often feel at a loss regarding proper care. Therefore, it is essential to understand the factors contributing to abnormal liver function.
What causes abnormal liver function?
1. Infections
Infections are the primary cause of abnormal liver function. Substances like parasites, leptospira, bacteria, and pathogens entering the body can damage the liver, leading to abnormal function. The most common viral cause is viral hepatitis.
2. Chemical poisoning
Substances like carbon tetrachloride entering the body can damage the enzyme systems of liver cells, causing metabolic disorders and leading to degeneration and necrosis of liver cells. Additionally, certain medications can also damage the liver, causing abnormal liver function in patients. Examples include chlorpromazine, certain amiodarone-based drugs, and antibiotics.
3. Immune Dysfunction
Immune dysfunction is a primary factor in liver damage. For instance, humoral and cellular immunity triggered by the hepatitis B virus directly damages hepatocytes. Primary biliary cirrhosis induces multiple antibodies in the blood, causing immune dysfunction that ultimately harms liver cells.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies can also damage liver cells and trigger abnormal liver function. Particularly, deficiencies in choline and methionine can lead to liver damage due to hepatic steatosis.This occurs because liver fat must first be converted into substances like lecithin before being transported throughout the body. Choline is a primary component of lecithin, while methionine plays a role in choline synthesis.Biliary obstruction causes bile stasis. If bile flow remains obstructed for an extended period, it damages hepatocytes and leads to hepatic ischemia due to compression. Furthermore, impaired blood circulation easily results in hepatic congestion and hypoxia, ultimately causing liver dysfunction such as chronic heart failure.
Important Note
If abnormal liver function remains unmanaged for an extended period, it may trigger severe liver diseases like cirrhosis. Therefore, upon detecting abnormal liver function, it is crucial to identify the cause with medical assistance and pursue targeted treatment. Like other diseases, early detection and treatment of abnormal liver function generally yield favorable outcomes. Delayed treatment may lead to irreversible consequences.